Argentina, Chile, and Patagonia Trip Extensions

EASTER ISLAND
6 days/5 nights from Santiago, offered year-round
One of the most isolated islands in the world, with enormous stone figures erected hundreds of years ago, Easter Island is a land shrouded in enigma. Spend 4 full days to explore this fascinating island, including excursions to the most important of the more than 600 interesting moai stone statues, such as Ahu Tahai and Akivi. Visit the volcanos of Rano Kao and Rano Raraku, observe ancient petroglyphs and the abandoned quarry where the moai were carved; the Vaiteka caves; and more. This extension provides an excellent introduction to the island's mysteries.

ATACAMA DESERT
4 days/3 nights, offered year-round
The driest desert on the planet, the starkly desolate, but unique, Atacama Desert in northern Chile, with its deeply incised canyons, high steppe and towering Andean mountains, is an ideal destination for photographers, nature lovers and active travelers alike. With highly visible and well-preserved pre-Columbian and colonial remains, it is an archaeological & cultural haven and its fascinating geography, including salt lakes, geysers and hot springs, volcanic peaks and quaint villages, set amid the scattered oases, is perfect for hiking, mountain biking or backcountry jeeping.

THE LAKE DISTRICT
4 days/3 nights, offered between October and March
A lovely region of rolling hills, glacier-clad volcanos and sparkling lakes, colonized by German immigrants, the Lake District is one of the most attractive destinations in Chile. Starting in Puerto Montt on the Pacific coast, we travel through some of the region's most spectacular landscapes, including visits to typical communities like Frutillar and Ensenada, a hike on Osorno Volcano and an afternoon visit to Lake Todos los Santos. This extension may be added as a pre-extension to programs such as the Hiking the Patagonian Andes, or following the Paine Towers Trek.

IGUAZÚ FALLS
3 days/2 nights from Buenos Aires, offered year-round
Iguazú Falls, one of the world's most famed waterfalls, is located in a dense tropical forest, along the Brazilian border in northern Argentina. At 230 feet in height and a-mile-and-a-half-wide, the falls, whose name in the indigenous tongue means Great Water, are higher and wider than Niagara. Not only are the 275 thundering cascades spectacular, it is also one of the few places in South America where one can easily wander through nearly pristine jungle. With 2 full days in Iguazú, this extension allows plenty of time to explore the main cataracts, such as the Devil's Throat, the Two Brothers Falls; and the Alvar Nuñez Falls, enjoy a boat excursion to San Martín Island, for a different perspective; and take guided nature hikes and photographic excursions along some of the trails that wind through the rainforest. A Brazil Visa is required if you wish to visit both sides of the falls.

TIERRA DEL FUEGO
3 days/2 nights from Punta Arenas or Río Gallegos, offered from October through March
The Land of Fire in Southern Argentina is a lovely, tranquil place of snow-capped mountains, dense forests and deep blue lakes located at the ends of the earth — a virtual paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This extension features a half-day walking and van visit of Tierra del Fuego National Park and a guided excursion to Harberton Ranch. There will be opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife such as marine birds, sea lions, steamer ducks, condors, and more as well as the chance to cruise along the shores of the Beagle Channel.

Contact us with questions or to check on availability or call 800.377.9463

Download Patagonia Trip Extensions Summary and Land Costs (.pdf)